There is something truly magical about a dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite, and Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe does exactly that. This vibrant pasta celebrates the freshest cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, garlic, and just the right kick of red pepper flakes, all brought together with silky angel hair pasta and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for warm days and casual dinners, this recipe is a testament to how a handful of simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal bursting with flavor, color, and texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, thoughtfully chosen ingredients is the secret to making Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe sing. Each component adds more than just flavor — from the sweet burst of cherry tomatoes to the peppery brightness of fresh basil, and the creamy, salty touch of Parmesan cheese that finishes the dish with a perfect flourish.
- 4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved: These provide a juicy, sweet base packed with color and summer freshness.
- Great quality extra virgin olive oil: Adds a fruity richness that elevates the sautéed tomatoes beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons (6 cloves) garlic, minced: Garlic brings a warm, aromatic depth that’s simply irresistible.
- 18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus extra for serving: Fresh basil gives the pasta a lovely herbal brightness with every bite.
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to wake up the palate and balance the sweetness.
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to harmonize the flavors perfectly.
- 1 lb. dried angel hair pasta: Delicate and light, angel hair pasta carries the sauce wonderfully without overpowering it.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving: Adds a salty, nutty finish that rounds out the dish beautifully.
How to Make Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente. The key here is to drain it well — you want the pasta to be tender yet firm so it holds up when tossed with the sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Tomatoes
While the pasta cooks, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until the aroma fills your kitchen, about 1 minute. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes along with the julienned basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook them gently until the tomatoes soften just a bit, releasing their sweet juices to create a light, flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Combine
Once your tomatoes are perfectly softened and your pasta is ready, add the drained angel hair directly into the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly so that the pasta is lovingly coated in that vibrant, garlicky tomato basil mixture. This step ensures each strand is infused with flavor.
Step 4: Finish
Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with some extra basil leaves over the pasta. Give it one last gentle toss to melt the cheese slightly and blend the flavors beautifully. The cheese creates a creamy texture that brings everything together into one irresistible summer dish.
How to Serve Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To showcase this pasta most beautifully, garnish with additional fresh basil and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese right before serving. These little finishing touches not only add a pop of color but also intensify the fresh garden flavors.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines as a standalone dish, but it pairs marvelously with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. A chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, creates a delightful summer dining experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to turn this into a visually stunning meal, serve the pasta in wide shallow bowls so the colors and textures can really wow your guests. For an elegant twist, arrange the cherry tomatoes on top in a pattern and finish with microgreens or edible flowers for that extra garden-fresh touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, but the fresh basil is best added just before reheating to maintain its brightness and vibrant color.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, you can freeze it by placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Keep in mind that the texture of the tomatoes and basil may change slightly upon thawing, so fresh additions after reheating will bring it back to life.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the pasta in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the delicate angel hair pasta mushy. Once heated through, stir in some freshly julienned basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for that fresh-out-of-the-kitchen taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While angel hair pasta is ideal for its lightness and quick cooking, you can substitute with spaghetti, linguine, or even thin fettuccine without losing the essence of Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Fresh basil is key to the vibrant flavor, but if you don’t have any on hand, a small amount of dried basil can work in a pinch. Just add it earlier during cooking to allow the flavor to develop, and try to garnish with any fresh herbs you may have to brighten the dish.
How spicy is the dish with the crushed red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes, but you can easily adjust the amount from 1/2 to 1 teaspoon based on your preference for heat or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder pasta.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes! To make Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe vegan, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based Parmesan alternative. The rest of the dish is naturally vegan and full of flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
This pasta can be part of a meal prep plan, but to keep it fresh, store the pasta and sauce components separately and combine them just before eating. Add fresh basil and Parmesan last minute to keep the vibrant flavors from fading.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that tastes like summer on a plate and is incredibly easy to prepare, you really must give Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe a try. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug from the sunny garden each time you make it, making it a delightful go-to that you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Print
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ina Garten’s Summer Garden Pasta is a fresh and vibrant pasta dish featuring sweet cherry tomatoes, fragrant garlic, basil, and a touch of red pepper flakes, all tossed with delicate angel hair pasta and finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This light and flavorful recipe captures the essence of summer in every bite, perfect for a quick and elegant meal.
Ingredients
Produce
- 4 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
- 18 large basil leaves, julienned, plus extra for serving
Pantry
- Great quality extra virgin olive oil (about 4 tablespoons)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb. dried angel hair pasta
Dairy
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 3-5 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté the Tomatoes: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, julienned basil, crushed red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften slightly and begin to release their juices, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Toss well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly so the pasta is coated with the flavorful tomato sauce.
- Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and add additional julienned basil leaves. Toss again gently to distribute evenly.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and basil leaves if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use the freshest basil possible to maximize flavor.
- Angel hair pasta cooks very quickly, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
- This pasta is best served immediately but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
